Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 vs. Glycerin 20: Which One? (2022)
The Adrenaline and Glycerin are two flagship models in the Brooks Running series with similar names that are as confusing as Nimbus and Cumulus in the Asics series.
First of all, we must compare what is comparable. The Adrenaline GTS is a shoe for overpronation as evoked by the acronym in its name, which means Go-To-Support. Thus, it features the Guide Rails technology that prevents the foot from rolling (inward or outward) while running.
On the other end, the Adrenaline is available in two versions: GTS (for overpronation) and standard (neutral support). It seems logical to compare the first with the Adrenaline GTS. For the classic Adrenaline, a comparison with the Brooks Ghost seems more relevant.
Cushioning
This is the main difference. The Glycerin is more cushioned with a thick 34 mm heel stack height and a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm. The sole of the Adrenaline GTS is thinner with 30 mm in the heel and a drop of 12 mm (so 18 mm under the forefoot compared to 24 mm for the Glycerin).
The underfoot feel is soft in both cases. However, the Glycerin has a major joker in its version 20: the new supercritical foam DNA Loft v3. This latest technology gives a nitrogen-infused midsole to give it a lighter, more bouncy structure. The result is responsive cushioning with a pretty amazing energy return for a trainer intended for daily training.
Unfortunately, the Adrenaline GTS 22 must make do with more basic technologies: BioMoGo DNA (which has been around for a decade) and DNA Loft (first generation). Thus, while offering a smooth ride, the bounce is not as impressive.
Foot lockdown
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 does a better job in this regard: its engineered mesh provides impeccable foot lockdown and comfort.
On the other hand, testers did not appreciate the engineered mesh of the Glycerin, which supports the foot in a somewhat hazardous manner. Fortunately, the Adrenaline is also available in a Stealthfit version (to further confuse those who are already struggling to keep up!). This one offers a thinner mesh with a more precise fit.
Finally, note that the classic Glycerin GTS is heavier than the Adrenaline GTS with 20 g/0.7 oz more, while the Stealthfit version is lighter (about 15 g/0.5 oz less).
Adrenaline or Glycerin: Which One to Choose?
Overall, the Brooks Glycerin 20 GTS Stealthfit is the better option due to its new DNA Loft v3 foam and lighter weight.
However, there’s a catch: the Stealthfit version isn’t the most common in stores. If you have to choose between the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 and the classic Glycerin GTS 20, then the former is a better choice because it’s lighter with better foot lockdown.
That’s it! Hopefully, this isn’t too confusing. This is just our humble 2 cents, but Brooks Running would benefit greatly from streamlining their series and discarding a few fringe versions.
Side-By-Side Comparison Table
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9.3  |
8.6  |
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|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Description | The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is the brand's flagship stability shoe that has proven itself over the years and continues to impress! | The Brooks Glycerin 20 is an ideal choice for runners looking for a shoe with soft, comfortable cushioning. |
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9.5
9
9.5
9.5
9.5
9
8.5
|
9
9
8.5
9
9
9
8.5
| |
| Facts | ||
| Terrain | Road | Road |
| Support | Overpronation (stability) | Neutral |
| Heel stack height | 30 mm | 33 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 18 mm | 24 mm |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 12 mm | 10 mm |
| Weight (men) | 289 g | 285 g |
| Weight (women) | 253 g | 257 g |
| Features | Vegan, Wide feet, Recycled materials | Wide feet, Heavy runner |
| Athletes | ||
| Release year | 2022 | 2022 |
| Technologies | ||
| Outsole | Blown rubber, Omega Flex Grooves, Segmented Crash Pads | Rubber with Flex Grooves |
| Midsole | BioMoGo DNA, DNA Loft, Guide Rails Holistic Support System | DNA LOFT v3, Guide Rails (GTS version) |
| Upper | Engineered Mesh | Engineered Air Mesh |
| Cushioning | ||
| Cushioning | Soft | Soft |
| Responsiveness | Medium | Medium |
| Use | ||
| Distance | Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon | Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon |
| Speed | Slow, Moderate | Slow, Moderate |
| Workouts | Daily running, Recovery | Daily running |
